Minnie Warren and Bonita Mitchell represent the concept that “Every Student Matters!”

They worked with the 11 students at Patrick Hamilton during their lunch period, helping them with goal setting and talking about each child’s dreams for the future and what they need to do to get there. They also checked progress reports, helped students finish assignments and counseled them on how to stay organized.

Warren and Mitchell also spoke with parents about the importance of a consistent homework time and routine. The two shared with students that they needed to start taking responsibility for their own schooling. They would also go to the their homes to work with parents and talk to them about behavior expectations.

They have a firm belief that showing respect to adults is expected and that all adults need to be respected at all times, no matter what. One of the big issues for students is hearing the word ‘no’ and how to appropriately react to an adult that does not give a child what they want. Some students think the word ‘no’ is an invitation to misbehave, become disrespectful or refuse to complete tasks. They discussed and modeled how to handle ‘no’ and what to do next. Warren’s daughter, who works in the juvenile justice system, was a guest speaker who talked about how to work through problems and solves conflicts successfully.

The work that Warren and Mitchell did will forever make a difference in these 11 student’s lives. They gave of their time freely to make a difference. They are going to continue to work in our schools with our children because they do indeed believe “Every Student Matters!” Thank you so much for your hard work and dedication; you are truly making a difference.

 

Dawn Conner, Deputy Superintendent